Misinformation spreads like viruses: A lesson from the French Revolution
Misinformation spreads like viruses, as seen during the French Revolution.
Why it matters
- Misinformation can lead to violence and political change.
- Disease models can map misinformation spread.
By the numbers
- Great Fear spread 28 miles/day.
- <20 deaths during uprisings.
- 40% locations near postal stations.
The big picture
- Study shows misinformation's role in political change.
- Digital era speeds spread but face-to-face still key.
What they're saying
- Published in Nature with interdisciplinary approach.
- Used historian George Lefebvre's records.
Caveats
- Based on historical data with potential limitations.
- Modern spread differs due to digital tech.
What’s next
- Historical patterns may help combat modern misinformation.
- Future research could apply models to current events.